Flutamide: What It Is and How It Works
Flutamide is an oral antiandrogen medicine most often used for prostate cancer. It blocks male hormones (androgens) at their receptor, which slows cancer growth that depends on testosterone. It’s an older drug but still useful in specific situations where doctors want to reduce androgen effects quickly.
Most people notice effects on hormone-driven symptoms within a few weeks, but cancer control is monitored with PSA and scans. Doctors usually give flutamide alongside other hormone treatments rather than alone. It’s not a cure by itself; think of it as part of a hormone-control plan.
Common Uses and Typical Dose
For prostate cancer, the usual adult dose is 250 mg taken three times a day. That frequent dosing keeps blood levels steady. Doctors sometimes use it short-term to manage flare when starting LHRH agonists, or when other antiandrogens aren’t suitable. In women, flutamide has been used off-label for severe acne or hirsutism, but these uses are uncommon because of safety concerns.
Side Effects, Liver Risk, and What to Watch For
The most serious risk with flutamide is liver injury. Patients can develop mild liver enzyme rises or rare but serious hepatitis. Your doctor will check liver tests before starting and then regularly during treatment. Stop the drug and call your clinician if you get yellow skin/eyes, dark urine, severe nausea, vomiting, or unexplained stomach pain.
Other side effects include hot flashes, breast swelling or tenderness, loss of libido, erectile dysfunction, and diarrhea. Some people feel tired or notice changes in mood. Because flutamide changes hormone balance, it can cause gynecomastia or breast tenderness in men.
Avoid using flutamide in pregnancy — it can harm a developing fetus. Women who are pregnant or may become pregnant must not handle broken tablets or take the drug. Also tell your doctor about all medicines you take: flutamide can interact with drugs that affect the liver or change hormone levels.
Practical Tips for Patients
Take flutamide with or without food at roughly the same times each day to keep levels stable. Don’t skip regular blood work — liver tests and PSA monitoring are the main checks. If you miss a dose, take it when you remember unless it’s almost time for the next one; don’t double up.
If side effects become bothersome, talk to your doctor about switching to alternatives like bicalutamide, which many clinicians prefer now because it’s easier on the liver for most people. Always follow the specialist’s plan and report any new symptoms quickly — early detection of liver or other problems makes treatment safer.
Want a second opinion or need help with side effects? Ask your care team for specific steps and support services. Knowing the risks and watching for warning signs lets you use flutamide more safely when it’s the right choice.
